Recent Studies Revealing Natural Alternatives to Proactiv for Acne

Natural home remedies get often overlooked as a means of treating acne. Instead, many people turn to topical medications and prescription drugs. These can often be dangerous and potentially have adverse effects on the skin — despite the claims that their manufacturers make about the treatments.

Acne appears on the skin as cysts, called papules, whiteheads, and blackheads, as a result of extended contact with dirty water, polluted air, sweat, and dust. Usually, skin ridden with pimples is indicative of hormonal imbalances, oxidative damage, and poor nutrition. Other causes of acne include dead skin cells, excess oil production, clogged pores, and bacteria. Also, research has found that diet, stress, and certain medications can be reasons a person develops the condition.

Millions of U.S. citizens suffer from breakouts and chronic acne. Symptoms can be mild or severe, and outbreaks can appear on the arms, face, chest, and back. Untreated acne can cause scarring and contribute to an individual’s lowered self-esteem.

Below are just a few natural home remedies one can use to treat acne. They are a cost-effective and healthy way to avoid using prescription medications that may have harsh chemicals and are proven to be effective.

Tomato Slices – Effectively reduces the appearance of scars and marks if rubbed on the skin.

Guggul – Also known as guggulsterone, 25 mg of guggul has been shown to reduce acne if taken twice per day.

Sandalwood Paste – If mixed with rosewater and left on the face overnight, and repeated as needed, the mixture can improve scars.

Cucumber Juice – It improves skin texture and is an excellent skin toner.

Probiotic food supplements – These have been proven by the Dermatology Online Journal in a recent to be a safe treatment.

Sweet basil and holy basil – Works against acne caused by bacteria.

Cinnamon and honey mask – Mix one teaspoon of coconut oil, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and two tablespoons of raw honey. Then smooth over the face. Let the mask remain untouched for five to ten minutes, then remove with a damp cloth. You can also add two drops of tea tree oil to the mask.